While dementia, a syndrome associated with a decline in memory and or other thinking skills, can be challenging for all involved including caregivers, there is a great deal that can be done to support and stimulate a loved one who has, or is developing, this condition.
Emmie Jackson, a health risk assessor and care coordinator in private practice partnered with the Livewell Group, an organisation that specialises in dementia care, says while dementia is a progressive condition, there are many medications and therapies available today that can assist in managing the condition and its associated symptoms.
“Many people with dementia can have their symptoms managed, and problems such as progressive memory loss can often at least be kept in check, especially when the syndrome and its underlying causes are identified, and therapies introduced, at an early stage. It is therefore important for those who are showing signs of dementia to be assessed by a healthcare practitioner who has expertise or experience in elder care,” she explains.
“It is imperative for the person with dementia to be stimulated with appropriate activities, outings and creative endeavours, as these can assist in preventing them from becoming frustrated, lonely and depressed. It can furthermore assist in supporting the individual’s memory, keep them engaged within the family and community for as long as possible, and meaningfully improve quality of life.
“Communication difficulties and behavioural problems, depression, anxiety, feelings of isolation and a number of other problems that may be associated with dementia, can be reduced or minimised when the loved one is able to participate in enjoyable and creative activities on a regular basis, within a structured daily programme” she explains.
Jackson says that the Livewell Villages, situated in Somerset West and Bryanston, consequently place a great deal of emphasis on having a carefully planned daily activity programme for both residents and those who attend Livewell’s day-time programme.
“These therapeutic daily activities, of which there are some 20, are structured around the individual and aim to meet their needs in a holistic manner, and make the person with dementia feel at home. We find that taking care of plants and animals, as well as interacting with other people, promotes a positive lifestyle, which in turn enables loved ones to live happier, more fulfilled and healthier lives,” she adds.
“The activities that are made available at Livewell are carefully planned and are designed to be therapeutic for residents. They include, among a number of others, arts and crafts, stories and poetry, gardening, outings, music and movement sessions, puzzles and board games, baking, and group and animal therapy sessions.
Jackson notes that while looking after the individual with advanced dementia within the home environment can be challenging, particularly as family members who are caregivers invariably have numerous other daily commitments, it is important to try to engage the person with dementia with enriching activities as regularly as possible.
“The kind of activities that we undertake with our residents at Livewell can provide you with an idea of the activities that you can also plan for your loved one at home,” she notes.
Jackson says the person suffering with advanced dementia will most likely struggle to initiate activities themselves and it is therefore imperative to arrange these for them. She recommends meaningful activities be organised for them preferably on a daily basis, but if that is not possible, at least once a week. She provides five activity ideas below for those who are caring for a loved one with dementia at home.
Music and movement
Music can positively impact mood, and assist in managing stress-induced agitation, stimulate positive interactions, facilitate cognitive stimulation, and contribute to coordination of motor movements. In addition to playing the individual music, you can also encourage them to play an instrument themselves. Drumming and movement to music, work particularly well as they allow therapeutic expression and could engage the individual in healthy physical activity.
Time in nature
Spending time in the garden and being in nature can be extremely therapeutic for all of us, and so too for a person with dementia. Encourage your loved one to plant a few seedlings or just walk around the garden from time to time. You can also consider creating a sensory garden, which can be a great form of stimulation. Lavender, basil and mint all have great olfactory and taste stimulation properties, trees tend to be calming and bright flowers are visually stimulating.
Sports and games
Playing sports and games can encourage teamwork, competitiveness, alertness and help maintain motor abilities. Games such as bowls or croquet, cards and golf are fun and stimulating if conducted in a safe and controlled supervised environment.
Arts and crafts
Many of the residents at Livewell enjoy arts and crafts and undertaking creative work with their hands. Needlework, knitting, painting, drawing and scrapbooking are just some of the things you can do with the individual who has dementia. These activities may encourage feelings of fulfilment and pride while improving overall confidence.
Getting out
Outings and a change of scenery can do wonders for your loved one who has been impacted by dementia. Some of the places you can visit and things you can do include outings to the beach, parks, aquariums, botanical gardens, museums, and historical places. Scenic drives are also a source of great enjoyment. Outings promote shared family experiences, social interaction and awareness of others. However, do ensure that the person with dementia is not left alone at any point in time, particularly if they are prone to becoming confused and bewildered.
Next Livewell Support Group meeting
The Livewell support group meetings offer an environment for loved ones of people with dementia, including friends, spouses, children and caregivers, to share their journeys and receive support from one another.
“Those impacted by dementia are invited to participate in the upcoming support group meeting. If you know of someone looking to learn more about dementia, tell him or her about the Livewell support group meetings. These will help you to deal with the realities associated with the care your loved one needs,” concludes Jackson.